Chicago-Style Beef Sandwiches are a legendary culinary creation that embodies the rich flavors and bold character of the Windy City. This iconic dish showcases thinly sliced, tender roast beef served on a crusty Italian roll, accompanied by a variety of flavorful toppings and a side of au jus for dipping. With its roots deeply embedded in Chicago’s vibrant food scene, the Chicago-Style Beef Sandwich has become a beloved staple and a symbol of the city’s culinary heritage. Join us as we delve into the history and details of this delectable recipe, guiding you through the steps to create your own mouthwatering Chicago-Style Beef Sandwich experience.

The history of Chicago-Style Beef Sandwiches can be traced back to the early 20th century when Italian immigrants brought their culinary traditions to the neighborhoods of Chicago. These immigrants, many of whom were involved in the city’s bustling meatpacking industry, introduced the concept of thinly sliced beef sandwiches to the local culinary scene.

The key to a true Chicago-Style Beef Sandwich lies in the preparation of the beef. The meat is typically slow-roasted until it becomes tender and flavorful, and then thinly sliced against the grain to ensure maximum tenderness.

One of the distinguishing features of Chicago-Style Beef Sandwiches is the use of Italian-style rolls, known as “Italian rolls” or “Italian bread.” These rolls are crusty on the outside and soft on the inside, providing the perfect vessel for the succulent beef and toppings.

The toppings for Chicago-Style Beef Sandwiches vary, but they often include giardiniera, a mixture of pickled vegetables, such as peppers, carrots, celery, and cauliflower, in a tangy brine. The giardiniera adds a vibrant burst of flavor and a touch of spiciness to the sandwich.

Another classic topping is sweet or hot peppers, which provide a zesty kick. Some variations may also include sautéed onions or melted cheese, such as provolone or mozzarella, for added richness.

To elevate the sandwich further, a side of au jus, a flavorful beef broth, is served for dipping. The au jus adds moisture and enhances the savory profile of the sandwich, creating a truly indulgent experience.

PREP: 30 MIN.

COOK: 8 HOURS

MAKES: 12 SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS

• 2 pounds beef roast (such as top round or sirloin tip)
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 4 Italian rolls or crusty French rolls
• Giardiniera (pickled vegetable mix)
• Sweet or hot peppers (such as sport peppers or banana peppers)
• Optional: Sautéed onions, melted provolone or mozzarella cheese
• For the Au Jus:
  • Reserved cooking liquid from the beef
  • Additional beef broth, if needed
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

INSTRUCTIONS

FOR THE ROAST BEEF:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. In a Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
3. Season the beef roast with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
4. Sear the beef roast in the hot oil on all sides until browned, creating a flavorful crust.
5. Remove the beef roast from the pot and set it aside.
6. Pour the beef broth and water into the pot, scraping the bottom to release any browned bits.
7. Return the seared beef roast to the pot and cover it with a lid.
8. Place the pot in the preheated oven and roast for about 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the beef is tender and easily shreds.
9. Once cooked, remove the beef roast from the pot and let it rest for a few minutes.
10. Using two forks, shred the beef into thin slices.

FOR THE AU JUS:

1. Strain and reserve the cooking liquid from the beef.
2. Skim off any excess fat from the reserved liquid.
3. Place the reserved liquid in a saucepan and add additional beef broth if needed to achieve the desired amount of au jus.
4. Heat the liquid over medium heat until warmed through.
5. Season the au jus with salt and black pepper to taste.

TO ASSEMBLE THE CHICAGO-STYLE BEEF SANDWICHES:

1. Preheat your oven’s broiler.
2. Split the Italian rolls or crusty French rolls horizontally, without completely separating the halves.
3. Place the rolls on a baking sheet and broil for a few minutes until lightly toasted.
4. Remove the rolls from the oven and layer the shredded beef on one side of each roll.
5. Top the beef with a generous amount of giardiniera, sweet or hot peppers, and any additional toppings desired.
6. Close the sandwiches and return them to the oven under the broiler for a minute or two, just until the cheese (if using) has melted and the sandwich is heated through.
7. Serve the Chicago-Style Beef Sandwiches alongside a side of au jus for dipping.

NOTES:

• Indulge in the mouthwatering flavors of Chicago-Style Beef Sandwiches, savoring the tender roast beef, tangy giardiniera, and the kick of sweet or hot peppers. This iconic sandwich pays homage to Chicago’s vibrant food culture, offering a hearty and satisfying dining experience. Celebrate the fusion of flavors and the culinary legacy of the Windy City with Chicago-Style Beef Sandwiches, creating a meal that is sure to impress and delight.